our 2023 exhibition:
UTE HAGEN ABSTRACTS - ARTIST STATEMENT
This exhibition marks a new chapter in my journey as an artist. I am thrilled to present my latest work here, the result of delving into the realm of abstracts! In contrast to my decades long career as an impressionist I am now conveying emotions and movements entirely through colour, form and texture.
The process of creating my abstracts is guided by intuition and a connection to a space beyond awareness, allowing each piece to develop from genuine emotions and freedom, true to myself.
Transitioning into abstract painting has brought me much joy and a deeper spiritual connection to bring a sense of “soul” into each work. As I enjoy a new challenge with every new panel and work on paper, I strive to express more deeply what I feel and receive, prioritizing the movement, colour, balance and life within the artwork. I hope to share a vibrant, captivating and joyful experience with the viewer through my work.
ARTIST BIO
Ute Hagen is a German-born Canadian artist who has been painting for over half a century. Her work encompasses both impressionistic representations and abstract expressions, and her paintings radiate with the vivid hues of the many places she has called home.
Born in Meissen, Germany, Ute Hagen's passion for painting ignited early on. In 1959, at the age of 15 Ute had her first show at the Heinrich Olle Gallery in Oberursel. She studied art under the tutelage of distinguished artists like Gerda Werner & Georg Hieronymi. Although painting was her first love, the post-war era's tumultuous backdrop led her to embark on a three-year apprenticeship in cabinet making, earning Ute her Journeyman diploma in 1963, which she later skillfully employed as an Antique Furniture Restorer.
In 1965, Ute immigrated to Montreal, Canada, where she immersed herself in the vibrant artistic scene. She participated in collective shows and worked in the fashion industry, refining her skills and nurturing her creative spirit. In 1973, she moved to Mexico City, where she lived and worked for a decade. This transformative period shaped her artistic voice, leading her to showcase her paintings in numerous collective and solo exhibitions, including a solo exhibit at The Museum of Mexico City in 1981.
In 1983, Ute returned to Canada and found solace in the tranquil beauty of British Columbia. She made Salt Spring Island her home, and her paintings mirrored the simplicity and serenity of rural life. In 2000, she returned to Mexico, where she continued to create stunning artwork and exhibited in numerous solo and collective shows.
Ute's work has been exhibited in galleries across Canada, Mexico, the United States, and Europe. Her paintings are held in private collections in Mexico, the United States, Canada, England, Ireland, Germany, Norway, Switzerland, Sweden, and the Bahamas.
more past shows:
annika hagen - ‘same roads traversed’
‘Same Roads Traversed’ is a series of 10, limited-run Cyanotype prints that capture the allure of Salt Spring Island roads, complemented by a corresponding work of poetry. 1 of 10 limited prints available in 11x15” and 22x30” formats, or in postcard and chapbook forms.
Each cyanotype print is hand processed on Arches Cover 400gsm 100% cotton rag archival, no alkaline reserve, acid-free, heavy weight paper with 4 deckled edges. Due to the nature of Cyanotype and the intention of the artist, each print will have unique flaws and imperfections. Editions are signed and numbered by the artist. All unframed prints rolled and shipped in a cardboard tube with glassine sheet.
stasia garraway - ‘one to another’
‘one to another’ the recent work of stasia garraway. stasia is a photographer whose work is devoted to portraiture, nudes, plants, dance, craft, art and culture. she is a graduate of emily carr university with a degree in fine arts. she currently spends half the year on salt spring using the forests and coastlines as her outdoor studio and half the year in courtship of southern light and life. the present exhibition features a selection of images she has made over the last two years in mexico, peru and colombia.
